about Us

Advancing Human Performance Through Research & Innovation

We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving human performance through objective evaluation, applied research, and evidence-based solutions that bridge the gap between system design and human capability.

Our Mission

Spinnaker Institute operates as a nonprofit scientific research organization under Section 501(c)(3). Our mission is to advance the science and practice of human performance — improving safety, learning, and readiness across public and private sectors. Through our independent assessments, applied research, and educational programs, we contribute to the public good by:

Promoting safer, more effective training systems

Supporting evidence-based design across defense and industry

Publishing research in human systems, simulation, and learning science

Providing open-access tools to improve global workforce development

Who We Are

Spinnaker Institute is a trusted third-party assessor connecting system design, human factors, and workforce performance. Our team applies HSI, training design, and applied research expertise to deliver objective analysis and measurable results. As a vendor-neutral organization, our recommendations always serve the mission—not market interests.

Human Systems Integration

Assessment

Performance Measurement

Simulation

Research

Assess the Whole System

We evaluate the complete human–system environment—people, tasks, technology, and training—to reveal the real drivers of performance, risk, and readiness.

Identify Root Causes

Through HSI methods and data analysis, we pinpoint the true source of performance gaps—whether design flaws, procedural issues, staffing challenges, or training limitations.

Recommend Targeted Interventions

We deliver practical, evidence-based solutions that focus resources where they will have the greatest impact, from training enhancements to system or process redesign.

Validate and Measure Results

We test and measure outcomes to ensure improvements are effective, sustainable, and directly linked to measurable gains in performance and safety.

Our Approach

Our methodology integrates Human Systems Integration (HSI) principles into every analysis. We examine how design, personnel, and training interact to influence human performance. This systems-based approach ensures that interventions are targeted where they matter most:

Leadership & Expertise

A leadership team with deep expertise in human performance and training design.

Nathan Jones

Executive Director

Nate Ferrara

Training Analyst

Kate Jones

Operations Director

Board of Directors

Brian Holmes

Board Secretary

Ray Compton

Board Member

Dennis Folds

Board Member

Nonprofit Research & Education Organization

For a detailed overview of our services, qualifications, and federal contracting eligibility, download the Spinnaker Institute Capability Statement. All downloadable materials must be 508-compliant PDFs.

Federal Contracting with Spinnaker Institute

FAR 6.302-3(a)(2)(ii) Full and open competition need not to be provided for when it is necessary to award the contract to a particular source or sources in order “To establish or maintain an essential engineering, research, or development capability to be provided by an educational or other nonprofit institution or a federally funded research and development center.”

Join the Mission

We partner with government, defense, research, and industry organizations to advance human performance, technology integration, and workforce readiness. Whether you’re developing a training system, conducting simulation VV&A, or evaluating training ROI, Spinnaker Institute helps ensure your investments deliver measurable, meaningful results.

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